Wearing a thong during pregnancy is generally safe but requires careful attention to hygiene and comfort. Underwear choices are often dictated by the body’s natural changes, which can impact both physical sensation and risk of infection. Selecting the right material and size is often more important than the style itself for maintaining health during this time.
Infection Risk and Hygiene Considerations
Pregnancy hormones cause a significant increase in vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea. This increased moisture, combined with warmth, creates an environment where yeast and bacteria can multiply more easily. Thongs may theoretically increase infection risk by acting as a conduit, potentially transferring bacteria like E. coli from the perianal area toward the vagina and urethra.
The narrow fabric strip can facilitate this migration of microbes, increasing the likelihood of developing issues like a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI). To mitigate this concern, choose thongs with a 100% cotton crotch lining, as cotton is a breathable, natural fiber that allows air circulation and absorbs moisture.
Keeping the genital area clean and dry is the priority. Changing underwear more frequently throughout the day is an effective hygiene practice. Avoiding synthetic materials that trap moisture is also advisable, as these contribute to the creation of a breeding ground for bacteria.
Managing Comfort During Trimester Changes
The physical changes of pregnancy often make comfort the deciding factor for underwear selection, outweighing the initial hygiene concerns. As blood flow increases throughout the body, the vulvar area may experience swelling or increased sensitivity. This heightened sensitivity can make the narrow band of a thong feel irritating, leading to chafing or general discomfort.
In the later stages, the growing abdomen can alter the fit of all clothing, including underwear. Non-maternity thongs may begin to dig into the skin or roll uncomfortably beneath the developing baby bump. This pressure can be particularly bothersome as the pregnancy progresses into the second and third trimesters.
Some women experience vulvar varicosities, or varicose veins in the vulva, which can cause tenderness and pressure. In these cases, the minimal coverage and tight fit of a thong can exacerbate the discomfort, making full-coverage styles a more soothing option.
When to Switch Underwear and What to Choose
The most practical sign that it is time to switch from thongs is persistent discomfort, such as itching, irritation, or chafing that does not resolve quickly. Recurrence of vaginal infections, like yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, is another clear indication despite diligent hygiene efforts. If you find yourself changing your thong multiple times a day due to dampness, a switch may be beneficial for maintaining dryness and preventing skin irritation.
When transitioning from thongs, maternity underwear offers specific designs to accommodate the pregnant body. Maternity briefs and high-waisted options often feature a stretchy panel that fits over the bump, providing gentle support without pressure. Seamless styles made from breathable fabrics like cotton, modal, or bamboo are popular for minimizing friction against sensitive skin.
Under-the-bump styles, which sit low on the hips, are another choice for those who prefer to keep fabric off the abdomen. Choosing a style with a wider crotch area and full coverage can significantly improve comfort and reduce the potential for moisture buildup compared to a thong.